The Kindle. That 21st century wonder that, in my opinion, is essential for all parents who read. Why, you say? Let me illuminate you.

#1- You can turn the pages soooooo quietly. For any parent who needs to be quiet sometimes to let little ones sleep (sometimes while sitting in the same room), reading is an excellent way to pass the time. I have been working on getting a 3 year old to stay in bed which currently requires sitting in her room so that I can put her back in her bed when she gets out. Sitting on the floor with my back to the bed gets old. There’s nothing much to do or look at while I try to remain still and quiet. The Kindle however opens up a whole new, very quiet door. No page turning noise. No shuffling about as I try to keep it open. No lights blinking or flashing screen to keep anyone up either. It’s wonderful.

#2- The Kindle doesn’t look like an iPad. Even very young kids are becoming familiar with the sights and sounds of an iPad or iPhone screen. Ooooh pretty. And distracting. If you have a plain old Kindle (no Fire I’m afraid), then no 3 year old is going to covet it. You can use it in front of them without inspiring envy or fuss. Yay! I’m sure that there are plenty of parents who have to think about checking their email before they do in case there are some kids lurking about who will ask for access to that shiny screen. Not so with a Kindle. Nobody will ask you for that unless they’re dying to find out how the new John Grisham book is (my grade = ~ok).

#3- One you already know. It’s small, light and can easily fit into a bag to come with you. You can read it anywhere. This shows your kids that books are a good thing to bring along while you’re waiting for something. You can read in front of them (again without any coveting) to show them your good reading habits. A reading role model. That’s you!

Just the books ma’am. Just the books.